Rustic Roots — Restaurant in Burlington

I've been here a few times for cocktails and/or an app and have been pleased with the experiences, so I wanted to give the (quintessential, Wisconsin-must) fish fry a try. I suspect (and hope) that tonight wasn't really indicative of a typical Friday because, aside from the standout texture and taste of the breaded haddock, the rest was lackluster at best. Staff was clearly frazzled from the start. I waited at the "wait to be seated" sign for quite some time, then decided to just take a seat at the bar instead. The potato pancakes were burnt and rough on the exterior, and yet somehow quite raw inside. I sat without a beverage for quite some time not once just upon seating myself, but twice, and though my meal came out speedily, my French Onion soup was entirely forgotten. I mentioned it when the food was delivered, and was told they'd "check the ticket," but it still did not arrive. Over halfway through my meal, I inquired with my server, and it came out a bit thereafter, so I set the remainder of my meal aside to potentially revisit after the first course (the bill revealed in notes that probably shouldn't be visible to the guest that it must have never been rung in). Sadly, the soup was weak and lacking in flavor (though I'm an admitted FO soup addict and critic, so I gave space for that) and I wished I'd never brought it up. Still, you'll see I gave a generous four stars, because the rating is based on an amalgamation of my visits, and not just this one. I'm in hospitality myself so I "get it," and I believe this was a one-off night. Still, I share in the spirit of honest reviewing. I'll definitely give it another shot, though perhaps not on a busy evening, and I'll...

This was my second time there and I unfortunately had another horrible experience. The first time we waited a very long time for our food and it was underwhelming. I ordered the bacon Mac and cheese while was flavorless, I would’ve rather just made some instant Mac at home. My boyfriend ordered the braised short ribs which was okay. The ribs were good but it was a small plate and the polenta was watery. This last time drew the line for us, we went a second time to give them another chance. We waited 15 minutes before we got drinks, the bartender was slow and very inattentive. We waited over an hour for our food and once again we were disappointed. This time I ordered the mushroom risotto (picture attached), first of all there was more mushrooms than anything else on the plate including the rice. The rice was mushy and overcooked and there was absolutely no sauce. Every risotto has some sort of liquid in it, yet it was absent on mine. My boyfriend ordered the tenderloin which was $13, his portion was not worth the price. While the meet had a delicious flavor it was ruined by the potatoes and lack of food. No one came to check on us or ask how our food was. We ended up just wanting to pay and leave. We made it very clear we were done by putting our forks and plates at the edge of the bar. But we had to get the other bartenders attention because she was too busy flirting with a customer to notice. Neither one of the bartenders asked if everything was good after clearly seeing I didn’t eat any of it. I left hungry and very upset. Don’t waste your time or money at this place, they’ll just keep...

This was our first date night out in a very long time. I can honestly say this is one of the new hottest restaurants in the area. The ambiance and setting are a great mix of rustic and modern and do not leave the eye wanting for interest. The drink menu is well thought out and delightful. There is a mix of something for everyone and the staff are excited to custom craft something to your liking. And the menu, oh the menu. Its artfully studied and focuses on fresh ingredients and playful yet simple mixtures of flavors and textures that are nothing short of outstanding.

I have eaten at many establishments over my 20 years in the food industry ranging from casual to elite fine dining. I can honestly say that this is my new favorite spot hands down. There is something for everyone and the style and service are top notch. Its also a great value for the food, beverages and service received. Well done to the Rustic Roots team!!! If you haven't been, get there! You will not be...